Everything you need to know to start a zero-waste and eco-friendly Chicago lifestyle
Are you ready to live a greener family lifestyle in Chicago? With the growing number of sustainable shops in the Windy City, you can positively impact the environment by changing simple shopping habits. From zero-waste refill stations to waste-free takeout, here are all the spots to shop for a sustainable and eco-conscious lifestyle in Chicago.
An Introduction to Zero-Waste Stores in Chicago
We all know it’s time to cut back on single-use packaging, but knowing where to begin is difficult. Waste-free shops are the perfect way to start. Whether you need coffee beans, shampoo or an eco-friendly toothbrush, these shops offer thousands of zero-waste products, often locally sourced. Start by checking their websites to see if they provide containers or prefer you to bring jars and bottles. Then, refill the products you need and support local shop owners.
Zero-Waste Refill Stations around Chicago
West Loop
The Unwaste Shop: Stop by this store to pick up one of their zero-waste kits. With everything from an oral care kit to a picnic kit, this shop has thought of all the ways to cut back on the trash you throw away. In addition, many refill products they offer are vegan and cruelty-free, so they’re as low-impact as possible.
1108 W. Madison St.
Chicago
Online: theunwasteshop.com
Lincoln Square
Eco & the Flamingo: Chicago’s original zero-waste general store offers everything from a refill on your household cleaners to your coffee can or shampoo bottle. Bring your recycling or composting material, and the shop will take care of that, too. In addition, you can shop online or in-store for beauty and home goods as well as herbal remedies and products.
4750 North Rockwell St.
Chicago
Online: theecoflamingo.com
Logan Square
Tinyshop Grocer: This tiny store’s products are as local, organic and cost-effective as possible. The available products are similar to what you’d find in the bulk section of a grocery store. The deposit-based product packaging is glass, and you can use the jars repeatedly; simply bring them back with each trip.
2659 W Armitage Ave.
Chicago
Online: tinyshopgrocer.com
Humboldt Park
The Refilleri: Specializing in lifestyle, personal care and home goods, this zero-waste store brings you high-quality items with little impact on the Earth. All items in the store are compostable, refillable or reusable. You can bring your jars or use the ones provided by the store. And, if you are new to the waste-free lifestyle, they offer workshops and classes to help you on your zero or reduced-waste journey.
1007 N California Ave.
Chicago
Online: refilleri.com
Zero-Waste Coffee & Groceries near Chicago
Bridgeport
Bridgeport Coffee: Head to the South Side of Chicago to visit this charming coffee shop filled with organic and fair-trade products. Bring a jar for coffee beans sourced from growers they’ve known for years. And remember your favorite mug to skip the unnecessary extra packaging.
3101 South Morgan St.
Chicago
Online: bridgeportcoffee.net
Logan Square
The Dill Pickle Food Co-op: Shop smaller at this zero-waste food co-op owned and operated by thousands who call Chicago home. You’ll skip big box store vibes when you can feed your family sustainably sourced, earth-friendly meals with their delicious and nutritious ingredients. And remember to look for the co-op brand grocery and household items to help keep prices low.
2746 N Milwaukee Ave.
Chicago
Online: dillpickle.coop
Noble Square
Local Foods: Yes, there is a solution for a busy weeknight when you need groceries and a takeout meal. This local zero-waste grocery store in Chicago is the one-stop location with zero-waste preprepared meals and locally sourced or produced ingredients. It’s the perfect way to save time, trash, and your town since this market supports small local farms and food systems.
1427 W. Willow
Chicago
Online: localfoods.com
Zero-Waste Home Goods & Second-Hand Clothes Stores near Chicago
Libertyville
Upscale Rummage & Furniture Warehouse: Stroll through this clean and organized department store-style thrift shop where you’ll find artwork, lamps, toys and books. The best part is that all shop proceeds go to local non-profits throughout Lake and Cook County. They pride themselves on keeping items out of landfills while directly supporting your Chicago neighbors after a house fire, medical emergency or unexpected layoff.
801 East Park Ave.
Libertyville
Online: upscalerummage.org
Lincoln Square
Family Tree Resale: Make clothes shopping a family affair when you visit this thrift shop filled with gently-used clothes, jewelry and wedding guest dresses. Your support allows the owners of this local gem to provide free clothing and home necessities through their voucher program. And they’re committed to recycling as much as possible, including sending worn clothes and shoes to a wholesale recycler.
5066 N. Lincoln Ave.
Chicago
Online: familytreeresale.com
Uptown
Cloud & Bunny: With everything from barely used children’s clothing to your next baby shower gift, this adorable gift shop lets you shop secondhand in style. This mom-owned consignment shop donates clothing items she chooses not to sell to community organizations benefiting local families in need. After arriving in the United States as a refugee in 1996, she is grateful to give back when so many supported her family.
1600 W. Montrose
Chicago
Online: cloudandbunny.com
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